Our Work
Our lab is primarily focused on understanding the molecular and biochemical mechanisms that govern how insect vectors transmit plant pathogens. We explore how both external factors, such as climate conditions, and internal factors, including the vector’s genetic makeup and bacterial endosymbionts, influence these interactions. Our research centers on the whitefly–virus and psyllid–Liberibacter systems.
Whitefly–Virus Interactions
A major focus of our lab is investigating the interactions between the whitefly Bemisia tabaci and the plant viruses it transmits. We primarily study begomoviruses and poleroviruses, two economically significant virus groups. Our current projects include:
Photo by: Dr. Alex Protasov
01
TYLCV–B. tabaci Interactions:
Exploring how Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) influences its transmission by manipulating both its whitefly vector and plant hosts.
02
​Climate Effects on Virus Transmission:
Examining how environmental conditions, particularly climate factors, affect the ability of whiteflies to transmit viruses.
03
PeWBVYV Transmission Dynamics:
Investigating the transmission of Pepper whitefly-borne vein yellows virus (PeWBVYV) by B. tabaci, with a focus on vector–virus interactions and symptom development in pepper plants.
Psyllid – Liberibacter interactions
Liberibacter species have emerged as some of the most destructive plant pathogens over the past two decades, severely affecting a range of crops including citrus and vegetables. Our research focuses on uncovering the molecular mechanisms that underlie the interactions between Liberibacter bacteria and their psyllid vectors. Current studies include:
•The carrot psyllid–L. solanacearum system in Israel
•The potato psyllid–L. solanacearum and Asian citrus psyllid–L. asiaticus systems, in collaboration with research groups in the United States
